Chikankari Kurta is a traditional embroidery technique that was originally developed in Lucknow and is rooted in the rich history of Indian textile arts. It involves sewing delicate floral or geometric motifs onto lightweight fabrics such as cotton, chiffon, georgette or muslin. Traditionally done on white fabrics, the evolution of fashion through new techniques has introduced colorful fabrics and vivid contrasting Chikankari embroidery. Clothing made from Chikankari fabrics is recommended for summer as it is breathable while the intricate embroidery and clean look add elegance and grace.
In 2024, Chikankari kurtas are a must-have specifically if you love creating coded ‘desi girl’ outfits and want to embrace traditional craftsmanship or support local artisans. Kurtas are also timeless and have a royal “old money” appeal as muslin was once reserved for royalty. Whether you prefer a western style or prefer to wear a fusion look, you can rely on these reliable kurtas to add a touch of cultural significance and sophistication to any look. Read on as this guide reveals the best ways to style this wardrobe staple and pick the best look for different occasions.
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Classic beauty
image credit goes to nykaafashion
image credit goes to nykaafashion
If you’re leaning into the minimal trend, you definitely shouldn’t sleep on the most classic way to style a Chikankari kurta – with matching bottoms and (faux) leather sandals. Taking a cue from Kriti Sanon, you can match the kurta with the same color or go for bottoms with similar thread work. To make your life easier, you can simply opt for a House of Chikankari Anarkali kurta set that is highly rated and manufactured using responsible manufacturing practices. Pair it with eco-friendly and handcrafted Kolhapuri sandals by Preet Kaur, which can also be used to create many different ethnic looks.
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Cool Girl
Whether you are traveling or heading out to a casual event, Chikankari sheer kurtas with denim jeans will help you achieve a cool and casual look while looking elegant. If you wish, the ADA georgette Lucknowni Chikan kurta will help you recreate this clean look seen on Mrunal Thakur, which can also be dressed up if desired by adding jewelery and heels. If you want to add a layer, the kurta also comes with a matching slip. Pair it with the trendy saddle bag – also known as the moon bag – from Miraggio, which customers love for its quality and design.
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Desi Divas
image credit goes to nykaafashion
Embrace your playful side and let your outfit reflect the vibrant summer color palette with colorful dupattas. Chikankari kurtas provide the perfect blank canvas for this splash of color and can be used to create multiple looks not only with different dupattas but also with shrugs, jackets, scarves and shawls. We recommend the Paramount Chikan embroidered kurta as it is handcrafted by artisans and this highly rated dupatta to recreate Sara Ali Khan’s look.
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Queens of versatility
If you’ve been into capsule wardrobes or just love versatile travel wear, don’t sleep on these sleek and stylish palazzos. You can pair them with short or long kurtas, blouses, camisoles and even jackets. Pair a solid palazzo with a Seva Chikan kurta to match Khushi Kapoor’s outfit. The kurta is handcrafted and made from light and airy georgette material for summer and comes with an inner slip when you need coverage.
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Miss is always cold
While Chikankari kurtas are the best choice for summer, you can adapt them for transitional weather and cooler temperatures on the go by layering them with a denim jacket. Recreate this outfit from Prajakta Kohli with the highly rated ADA chikan kurta and denim jacket by MIXT by Nykaa Fashion. Accessorize this Indo-Western outfit with jhumkas for an elegant and stylish look.
